Defining and Designing the Online Science Laboratory

Laboratory experiments are an essential component of science courses. Experimentation provides students with real-world contexts for applying scientific concepts while allowing them to develop critical thinking skills and promoting scientific literacy. Hands-on experiments, field-based investigations, and computer simulations can engage students in scientific processes as they make predications; observe and collect data; formulate explanations; and communicate their findings. While it might seem obvious what constitutes a laboratory experience in a face-to-face setting, this definition is particularly key when designing comparable experiences for online students. We will present our definition of the scientific laboratory and discuss its application when designing online experiments.Learning Objectives:
*Integrate appropriate laboratory activities with theoretical course concepts in an online learning environment
*Design online labs to incorporate the tools and methods of science
*Teach students to have authentic scientific experiences from their own locations
*Apply the study findings to science educators' own teaching practices